SC unanimously overrules Dame’s objection to Ag. CJ presiding over Torkornoo’s suspension case

The Supreme Court has dismissed an objection from Godfred Yeboah Dame. He is the former Attorney General. His objection was against acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie presiding over Chief Justice Torkornoo’s suspension case.

Dame argued that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie could benefit from the proceedings. Therefore, he should recuse himself. He also objected to changing the original panel of justices. This panel included Justices Samuel Asiedu, Ernest Gaewu, Richard Agyei Frimpong, and Yaw Asare Darko.

The current panel consists of Justices Yonny Kulendi, Amadu Tanko, Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, and Ernest Gaewu. Acting Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie is presiding over this panel.

Dame cited Article 157(3) of the Constitution. He argued that the original panel should not change until the matter concludes. He expressed concern that Baffoe-Bonnie's involvement could undermine public trust in judicial independence.

After a brief recess, the Supreme Court reconvened and unanimously overruled Dame's objection. The justices found that his concerns did not disqualify Justice Baffoe-Bonnie from presiding over the case. They assured that due judicial process would be upheld throughout.

Meanwhile, Godfred Yeboah Dame claimed that Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkornoo’s suspension is a charade. He stated it is an attempt to remove her from office.